Isaiah 7:22 – “And because of the abundance of the milk they give, there will be curds to eat. All who remain in the land will eat curds and honey.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the conditions in Judah following the prophesied judgment. After the land has been devastated by invading forces and left desolate, only a remnant of people will remain. These survivors will live in simplicity, relying on the natural produce of the land—milk, curds, and honey—for sustenance.
The mention of curds and honey symbolizes both scarcity and provision. While the agricultural systems will be broken, the land will still provide enough for survival. The phrase “all who remain in the land” highlights the survival of a remnant, a theme that runs throughout Isaiah’s prophecies. This remnant represents God’s faithfulness in preserving His people, even amid judgment.
Historical Context
At the time of this prophecy, Judah faced political and military threats from Aram (Syria) and Israel (Ephraim). Instead of trusting God for deliverance, King Ahaz sought an alliance with Assyria, leading to devastating consequences. Assyrian invasions left Judah desolate, fulfilling Isaiah’s warnings.
This verse reflects the aftermath of these events. The population would be drastically reduced, and cultivated fields would revert to wilderness. People would rely on basic, natural resources like milk and honey, a stark contrast to Judah’s former prosperity.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes God’s judgment and mercy. While Judah would experience devastation because of their disobedience, God would preserve a remnant. This balance demonstrates that God’s discipline is not meant to destroy His people entirely but to correct and refine them.
The provision of curds and honey also points to God’s care for His people, even in times of hardship. It reminds us that God is a provider, ensuring that His people have what they need to survive, even in difficult circumstances.
Literary Analysis
The imagery of curds and honey connects this verse to earlier descriptions of the land of Israel as a “land flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:8). However, the context here is different—what was once a symbol of abundance is now a sign of survival in a desolate land.
The mention of “all who remain in the land” highlights the theme of the remnant, a key idea in Isaiah’s prophecies. This literary device underscores God’s faithfulness in preserving a portion of His people, even during judgment.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 3:8: The promise of a land flowing with milk and honey, symbolizing God’s provision.
- Isaiah 1:9: A reminder that God preserves a remnant, even in judgment.
- Isaiah 10:20-21: The remnant of Israel will return to the Lord and rely on Him.
- Psalm 37:25: A reassurance that God provides for His people in times of need.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, this verse is a reminder of God’s faithfulness, even in times of discipline or hardship. It encourages believers to trust that God will provide for their needs, even when circumstances seem bleak. The imagery of the remnant challenges us to remain faithful to God, knowing that He always preserves His people.
This verse also calls us to reflect on the simplicity of God’s provision. Just as the survivors in Judah relied on basic sustenance, believers are reminded to depend on God’s care rather than material abundance or worldly security.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His provision for the remnant. Even after judgment, He ensures that His people have what they need to survive and rebuild. This verse reflects God’s mercy and care, showing that His discipline is not an end in itself but a means of restoring His people to a right relationship with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s care and provision. While the remnant in Isaiah’s time experienced God’s physical provision, Jesus provides spiritual sustenance and eternal life.
Jesus is described as the Bread of Life (John 6:35), offering ultimate satisfaction and provision for those who trust in Him. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus ensures that God’s people are not only preserved but also restored to fullness of life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s provision, even in times of hardship?
- Are there areas in your life where you are relying on material abundance instead of depending on God?
- How does the theme of the remnant challenge you to remain faithful to God, even when others turn away?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s mercy and His desire to preserve His people?
- How does Jesus’ role as the Bread of Life give you confidence in God’s ultimate provision and care?
Isaiah 7:22 reminds us of God’s faithfulness and provision, even in the aftermath of judgment. It calls us to depend on Him for our needs and to trust His care in every circumstance. Through Jesus Christ, we see the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises, offering hope and sustenance for both this life and eternity.